Unidentified person killed by train in East Falls

Service on SEPTA's R6 commuter-rail line was suspended in both directions for more than two hours yesterday morning after a person crossing the tracks was fatally struck by a train in the East Falls section of Philadelphia.

The accident happened where the tracks cross Schoolhouse Lane. An outbound train pulling into the Wissahickon Station shortly after 6 a.m. hit the victim, a SEPTA spokesman said. Service resumed in both directions about 8:30 a.m.

Officials had few details about the fatality.

One witness, William Burk, 35, of North Philadelphia, said the accident occurred while it was still dark outside. After the victim was hit, the train rolled to a stop, and the conductors walked to the back of the train and then walked back, announcing to passengers that the train had struck someone, he said. He said the passengers then got out and walked to the Wissahickon Station.

- Inquirer staff